Exhibition themes Moche

The Moche dominated the northern coast of Peru for more than 600 years. Their influence spread from the Piura Valley in the north to Ancash in the south. Successful farming and irrigation techniques combined with hunting and coastal fishing to create wealth. Trade was important, notably red spondylus shell from Ecuador and blue lapis lazuli from Chile.

Decorated and sculptural ceramics are among the lasting achievements of the Moche. Stirrup vessels—two handles united to form a spout—were imitated for centuries afterwards. Fine-line drawings on ceramics reveal details of hunting, rituals and many facets of everyday life.

The downfall of the Moche is linked to the disastrous consequences of a severe El Niño, which caused 30 years of flooding, then 30 years of drought. Such disruption undermined belief in the supernatural power of the rulers.